Children confirmed dead as diphtheria outbreak hits Imo community

An unconfirmed number of children have died following a diphtheria outbreak in Mbutu community, Aboh Mbaise LGA of Imo state.

The chairman of Aboh Mbaise LGA, Iheukwumere Henry Alaribe, confirmed the deaths in a statement dated May 26, 2025.

Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by corynebacterium diphtheriae, a toxin-producing bacterium that commonly infects the nose and throat, but can also affect the skin.

The bacteria spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing and through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

As a containment measure, the local government has ordered the temporary closure of schools in the community.

Godspower Dike, spokesperson to the chairman, said the outbreak claimed multiple lives within days of its detection.

He said parents have been advised to keep their children indoors to reduce the risk of exposure.

Alaribe said officials of the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Imo State Ministry of Health’s Department of Disease Prevention and Control, and health workers from Aboh Mbaise LGA were working to contain the outbreak.

He said an isolation centre has been established at the Mbutu Health Centre, with medical staff deployed to monitor and quarantine suspected cases.

His words: “In light of this outbreak, parents who have not yet vaccinated their children are strongly urged to do so without delay.

“Vaccinations are crucial for preventing the spread of diseases and protecting our children’s health.”

Dike added that the public should remain calm and cooperate with health authorities as efforts continue to contain the outbreak.

“We encourage the public to remain calm and cooperate with the relevant authorities as we work to control this outbreak. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” he stated.